Alzheimer’s San Diego Honors 2026 Visionary Recipient, Raises $180,000 to Support Local Dementia Care

Alzheimer’s San Diego hosted its annual “Visionary Luncheon and Auction” at Coasterra on May 8, raising a total of $180,000 to support local individuals and families experiencing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Proceeds from the event will help the nonprofit sustain and expand its free programs and services, ensuring San Diegans impacted by memory loss continue receiving critical support, education and care.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us and supported this year’s Visionary Luncheon and Auction, one of our largest fundraisers of the year,” says Eugenia L. Welch, president and CEO, Alzheimer’s San Diego. “Our Visionary supporters are essential to advancing our mission, and their generosity directly helps local families affected by memory loss while easing the financial and emotional burdens so many San Diego families face while navigating dementia.”

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The luncheon welcomed 200 guests to Coasterra, where attendees enjoyed sweeping views of Downtown San Diego while mingling over cocktails and hors d'oeuvres before participating in the event’s silent and live auctions. Auction participants had the opportunity to bid on exclusive experiences, including a Deluxe Del Mar Getaway package, and a VIP San Diego Padres package featuring a pregame tour, game tickets, lunch, and a one-night stay at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego.

This year’s Visionary honoree was Ann Owens, former Alzheimer’s San Diego board member, current Community Advisory Council member and longtime advocate dedicated to advancing awareness and support for families impacted by Alzheimer’s. Owens, who played an instrumental role in the formation of Alzheimer’s San Diego more than a decade ago, was recognized for her selfless commitment to advocacy and fundraising efforts throughout the community. More than a decade ago, she started “Ann’s Army” in the organization’s annual Walk4ALZ event. Since then, the team has raised more than $400,000 while rallying supporters around the cause. During the luncheon, Owens shared her deeply personal connection to Alzheimer’s, including witnessing six family members experience memory loss, with two ultimately losing their lives to the disease.

“I understand how devastating this disease can be and the emotional toll it takes on families,” says Owens. “It was heartbreaking to watch my aunts, who were once active and healthy, slowly fade away. Alzheimer’s changes not only the life of the person diagnosed, but the lives of everyone around them.” The room fell quiet as Owens reflected on her family’s journey, with many attendees visibly emotional as they connected with the shared realities of memory loss and caregiving. Her story underscored the importance of community support, compassionate care, and continued investment in programs and services that help local families impacted by dementia.

Attendees left feeling moved and inspired after hearing deeply personal stories and remarks about the impact of Alzheimer’s disease and the critical role Alzheimer’s San Diego plays in supporting local families. Attendees were reminded that every dollar raised stays 100% local, helping provide free programs and services to thousands of San Diegans each year. The afternoon not only celebrated resilience, but also reinforced the commitment to ensuring no family faces dementia alone, and the unstoppable power of community.

For additional information and ways to get involved with Alzheimer’s San Diego visit alzsd.org or call 858-492-4400.

About Alzheimer’s San Diego
Alzheimer’s San Diego is a local and independent nonprofit, not affiliated with a national organization or association, dedicated to providing support, education, advocacy, and social connection for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Alzheimer's San Diego strives to enhance the quality of life of all those impacted by these conditions in San Diego County. For more information, visit alzsd.org or call (858) 492-4400.